New Zealand votes with economy, cost of living in focus
WELLINGTON - New Zealanders vote this week in an election focused on rising costs of living and the economy, with pollsters forecasting a tight contest with neither main party close to winning a majority.
New Zealand's upcoming election is focused on the economy and rising cost of living, with both main parties struggling to gain an outright majority. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's right-wing coalition appeals to voters with promises of no new taxes, while the opposition Labour Party targets cost of living concerns. Polls show 64% of respondents worry about inflation and rising costs, followed by healthcare and petrol prices.
The economy and unemployment also rank high among voter concerns. Luxon, a former millionaire businessman, sees himself as a "super salesman" and plans to negotiate more free-trade deals. Labour's Chris Hipkins, who succeeded Jacinda Ardern, leverages National's failure to curb cost of living to revitalize his party. Neither party is expected to win a majority, requiring help from minor parties.
The Green Party, focusing on living costs, gains record support with plans to limit supermarket duopoly and impose a wealth tax. Populist Winston Peters' NZ First seeks immigration cuts and withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord. Libertarian ACT party, led by David Seymour, is part of the right-wing alliance. In the center, Opportunity Party's Qiulae Wong offers climate change action and empathetic politics.
Voters cast two ballots: one for a party and one for a local candidate, with the final votes due on November 27. The MMP system allows for "overhang" seats if a party wins more electorate seats than its party vote entitles it to. Depending on the results, the next government may focus on international trade growth or introduce cost-of-living relief measures.
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